Supporting Composite Molders Who Use Phenolic Resins

Within the composite molding industry there are many different resins that may be utilized, and Chem-Trend has developed products designed to work with the special characteristics of each resin type. Typically, but not exclusively, polyester, vinyl ester, epoxy, phenolic, polyether and DCPD resins are used by fabricators in the manufacture of composite parts. The selection of one resin type over another is based upon the environment in which the fabricated composite component will spend its working life, as well as the physical characteristics required for the end part. The specific physical and mechanical properties of the resins are key parameters in the selection process.

The selection of a specific type of resin has a strong influence on the properties of the mold release agent/release system. In molding these resins the number of releases obtained between applications of semi-permanent release agent touch-up coats will vary from resin to resin. Taking the extremes, it is highly likely that the maximum number of releases is obtained in molding a polyester article, whereas substantially fewer releases would be expected when molding a product manufactured from phenolic-based resin. The number of releases between new applications of the mold release agent also varies. Products utilizing phenolic will allow for the fewest releases between required reapplication or touch up versus all other types of resins.

Aside from just the effect on release ease, and time between release agent touch up, the resin selected may also influence other release system parameters that, in-turn, may affect end part quality, operational efficiency and mold life. Chem-Trend has over two decades of experience helping composite molders understand the interactions between molding process, raw materials being molded, part shape/weight, mold type and environmental factors to select the optimum release system for the task at hand. To learn more about how our experience in the field may be of benefit to you, read our Composite Molding page.